cline
Autonomous coding agent as an SDK, IDE extension, or CLI assistant.
Build, plan, and execute code changes across your codebase with multi-model AI support.
Cline is an autonomous coding agent that operates inside your IDE, terminal, or desktop app to edit code, run shell commands, and manage tasks. It suits developers and researchers who want an AI agent that can coordinate multi-agent teams and execute complex workflows with human-in-the-loop approvals.
What it is
The tool reads project structures, makes coordinated code edits across multiple files, and monitors linter or compiler errors in real time. It offers a Plan mode for strategizing and an Act mode for execution, alongside support for cron-scheduled agents and messaging platform integrations like Slack and Telegram.
Who it's for
It suits software engineers, researchers, and technical power users managing complex repositories who prefer granular control over AI actions. It does not suit non-technical students or researchers looking for a simple Q&A chatbot without terminal or codebase access.
Key features
Multi-Model Support
Connects to Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, local Ollama models, and over 200 other providers.
Plan and Act Modes
Explore codebases and lay out strategies before letting the agent execute changes with approval.
Scheduled Automations
Run agents on cron schedules for daily PR summaries and codebase health reports.
Multi-Agent Teams
Coordinate a coordinator agent that breaks down work and delegates to specialist sub-agents.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Executes terminal commands and monitors output in real time to catch compile errors
- Integrates directly into VS Code, JetBrains, terminal CLI, and native desktop apps
- Extensible through Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers and the Node.js SDK
- Connects to messaging platforms like Slack, Telegram, and Discord for remote interaction
Where it falls short
- Requires API keys and incurs usage costs from third-party AI model providers
- Running autonomous agents with auto-approve enabled carries the risk of unintended code modifications
- Requires technical familiarity with command-line tools, environment variables, and SDK configuration
Pricing & license
The tool is free under its Apache-2.0 licence, but running it requires API access to supported AI providers or a local hardware setup for self-hosted models, meaning ongoing usage costs depend on your chosen provider.
Open remote AI-training roles
867 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$170 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Can I run local models with Cline?
Yes, you can connect local models running on your machine via Ollama or LM Studio.
How do I prevent Cline from modifying files without my consent?
By default, every file edit and terminal command requires your manual approval, though you can toggle auto-approve if desired.
